The collection of approximately 1,500 tons of garbage following Typhoon Carina once again highlighted the country’s current waste management crisis. And the garbage collected was just in Metro Manila alone.
Despite the mandates of Republic Act 9003, which requires all barangays to establish their own materials recovery facilities (MRFs), the problem persists nationwide. In fact, state think tank Philippine Institute for Development Studies reported early this year that the country only has 11,625 materials recovery facilities covering 42,029 barangays. It added that there are only 237 sanitary landfills servicing 1,634 cities and municipalities. This underscores the need for a more concerted effort from the government, private sector, and every individual to tackle this pressing issue.
The government must lead by example. It must ensure strict enforcement of existing laws and provide the necessary infrastructure and funding for waste management programs. It can start by assisting barangays who still lack materials recovery facilities to implement the mandate of Section 32 of RA 9003. Let’s face it, some barangays can ill-afford to put up their own MRFs without national government’s support, especially on the financial and technical aspects.
The private sector also plays a crucial role in waste management by investing in innovative technologies and sustainable practices. Prime Integrated Waste Solutions Inc. (PWS) set an example when it transformed Cebu City’s Binaliw sanitary landfill into an automated materials recovery facility. By utilizing state-of-the-art equipment from Europe and Asia, PWS processes up to 1,000 tons of solid waste per day, significantly reducing the amount of waste that ends up in landfills. This not only mitigates environmental harm but also sets a benchmark for other companies to follow.
The success of the materials recovery facility in Barangay Binaliw, Cebu City, serves as a testament to what can be achieved with proper support and oversight. Since the PWS’s takeover of the facility in 2022, significant improvements and enhanced operational efficiencies have been introduced that are now positively impacting both the environment and local communities.
Apart from the government and private sector, every individual has a role to play to address the garbage crisis. Everyone must take responsibility for their waste. Simple acts like segregating waste at home, reducing plastic use, and participating in community clean-up drives can collectively make a significant difference. Education and awareness campaigns are essential to instill a sense of responsibility and urgency among citizens.
Addressing the waste problem in the country requires a united effort. The government must enforce and support waste management laws, the private sector must continue to innovate and invest in sustainable solutions, and individuals must adopt responsible waste practices. The success of the materials recovery facility in Cebu demonstrates that with collective action, significant progress can be achieved.
Let us all play our role in creating a cleaner and healthier environment for our generation and the generations to come.